Sunday, April 25, 2010

Sohan Halwa or Sohan Halva

Sohan Halwa or Sohan Halva is a traditional northern Indian and Pakistani sweet.

It is made by boiling a mixture of water, sugar, milk and cornflour until it becomes solid. Saffron is used for flavoring. Ghee is used to prevent it from sticking to the pan. Almonds, pistachios and cardamom seeds are added. Unlike most other halwa dishes in the subcontinent, it is solid.

Heat 3 cups of water in a heavy based pot. Add in sugar and boil for 10 minutes. Add 1 cup of milk and boil for another 5 minutes and strain.
Dissolve the cornflour in 1 cup of water. Add this to the previous mixture. Dissolve saffron in a little bit of water, and add to the cornflour mixture. Cook over low heat. When the cornflour mixture starts becoming thick, start adding in the oil a little by little. Continue adding the oil slowly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continuously stir while it is cooking.
When the mixture starts separating and begins lump formation, add the almonds, pistachois and cardamom seeds and mix.
Have your pre-greased tray ready, and spread the sohan halwa mixture on it. Flatten mixture by pressing.
Garnish with almonds and pistacchios. Let it cool then cut into square pieces and serve.